Mumbai, May 14: Virat Kohli’s sudden decision to retire from Test cricket has taken the cricketing world by surprise, and the reaction on the ground was evident when the former Indian captain was spotted at the Mumbai airport on Tuesday. Just a day after announcing his retirement through an Instagram post, Kohli was met with emotional responses and probing questions from fans and photographers.
As he walked out of the arrival gate, a swarm of paparazzi gathered to capture Kohli’s first public appearance following the announcement. While the cricketer maintained his composure, the emotional reactions of the photographers highlighted the impact his decision had on fans.
One paparazzo was heard telling him, "Sir, aapne galat kiya. Aapne retirement kyun liya? Ab hum cricket hi nahi dekhenge. Aapke liye main Test cricket dekhta tha" — expressing disappointment and saying he would no longer watch the game without Kohli.
Kohli, taken aback by the comment, appeared visibly surprised. His reaction, coupled with the emotional exchanges, quickly went viral on social media. Amid the frenzy, Kohli politely asked photographers to give space to his wife, actress Anushka Sharma, so she could get into their car comfortably.
As the couple prepared to leave the airport, the paparazzo added, "Virat Sir, hum cricket nahi dekhenge, wait karenge. ODI dekhenge. Is baar RCB jeetega," reflecting hope and support for Kohli’s continued presence in limited-overs cricket and the ongoing IPL season.
Kohli’s Test retirement has come just ahead of India’s squad announcement for the five-match home Test series against England, starting June 20. With 123 Tests to his name, Kohli bows out as India’s fourth-highest run-scorer and one of the most celebrated batters in red-ball cricket. He also holds the record as India’s most successful Test captain, having led the team in 68 matches and winning 40 of them.
Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma at Mumbai Airport ✈️
— Virat Kohli Fan Club (@Trend_VKohli) May 13, 2025
- Paps to Virat : Virat sir why did you take retirement? We will not see cricket any more! 💔 pic.twitter.com/rXY8k4iqN4
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Amritsar (PTI): Former president Ram Nath Kovind on Friday said that with digital transformation, economic reforms and a strong focus on the ease of doing business, India is moving towards becoming a global economic powerhouse.
He was speaking after inaugurating the 19th edition of the Punjab International Trade Expo (PITEX) in Amritsar.
The former president said that this 19th edition of PITEX is being organised at a time when India is recognised as one of the fastest-growing large economies in the world.
Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the event organised by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) the former president, while referring to Punjab, said the state is a living example of courage, sacrifice and enterprise.
"The spiritual light of Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) inspires peace and humanity across the world. The heritage of Punjab is deep and inspiring," Kovind said, according to a statement issued by the PITEX.
The former president congratulated the PHDCCI for hosting the 19th edition of PITEX and suggested that the chamber should expand PITEX outside Punjab.
He proposed that a similar event should also be held in New Delhi.
